Research Scientist- Researcher / Scientist III

Research Scientist- Researcher / Scientist III Posting Number req23708 Department Arizona Geological Survey Department Website Link Location Main Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights

The Arizona Geological Survey is a nonacademic research department in the University of Arizona tasked with furthering our understanding of the geology, mineral resources, and natural hazards of Arizona. We invite applications for a new Research Scientist to contribute to our environmental and geologic hazards team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a field-oriented geomorphologist / Quaternary geologist interested in contributing to geologic hazards and Quaternary geology research. The successful candidate will have a background in geomorphology, geologic hazards, sedimentary geology, soil characterization, and / or neotectonics.

The new Research Scientist will contribute to a variety of geological hazards research projects and may conduct surficial geologic mapping as a member of the AZGS geologic mapping team. Current geological hazards research projects address a range of hazards including seismic, earth fissures, landslides, and post-wildfire debris flows. The new Research Scientist will also have opportunities to help develop, lead, and manage projects related to geologic hazards and / or Quaternary geology in their area of expertise.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA / ASU / NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please .

Duties & Responsibilities

Key technical skills for a successful candidate include the ability to conduct surficial geologic mapping (including stratigraphic and geomorphic analysis), interpret diverse datasets (, aerial imagery, LiDAR data, borehole or well data, soil development, deposit dating, geochemistry, etc.), analyze landscapes, and synthesize mapping information in a GIS environment. The successful candidate should be comfortable using GIS software (, ArcGIS Pro). Familiarity with at least one programming language (, Python, C, C++, Fortran, MATLAB) is advantageous but not required. An FAA unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) pilots license and experience flying UAVs is also advantageous but not required.

The successful candidate will be able to conduct independent fieldwork, will have strong interpersonal skills and can work collaboratively on a team, will have experience conducting geological hazards research and / or mapping projects, and will have experience communicating their science effectively with other researchers, public and private stakeholders, and members of the public. All AZGS research scientists participate in field investigations, develop and write proposals, and conduct office-based data compilations that will lead to the production of high-quality reports and maps, datasets, scientific papers, and presentations.

Primary responsibilities and desired skills include, but are not limited to :

• Collaborate with other staff members team to develop, conduct, lead, and manage geologic hazards investigations, such as earth-fissure or landslide mapping, post-wildfire debris-flow research, and seismic or other hazards, participating in all stages of projects from planning through publication.
• Contribute to all stages of the research lifecycle, including planning, fieldwork, analysis, GIS compilation, and publication of reports and / or maps.
• Conduct solo and team geological hazards investigations and / or surficial geologic mapping, sometimes in remote locations.
• Communicate with staff of varying technical knowledge and with non-scientific stakeholders.
• Effectively write AZGS reports to summarize research results and to accompany maps.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Author peer-reviewed scientific papers and publications.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

FLSA Exempt Full Time / Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Research Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay $59,404 - $74,254 Compensation Type salary at full-time equivalency (FTE) Grade 8 Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education / training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our and our . Career Stream and Level PC3 Job Family Researchers & Scientists Job Function Research Type of criminal background check required : Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates For additional questions, please contact Randi Bellassai

Open Date 8 / 19 / 2025 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed